My qNomics journey and the power of ESG – A stepping stone to investment banking
Haashir, a first-year BSc Economics, Finance and Management student at Queen Mary University of London, shares his personal journey with qNomics and answers key questions about how the programme can help boost your skills, confidence, and future career prospects.
My peers with the Director of qNomics, Leon Vinokur
For me, qNomics offered two key opportunities perfectly aligned with my future career in finance. First, the chance to work with a startup and contribute to its growth provided invaluable practical experience. Second, I was keen to delve deeper into Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). Understanding ESG's real-world impact and its growing significance in finance, particularly within investment banking, was a huge motivator.
The application process was straightforward, and I was thrilled to be selected! I highlighted my prior internship at an ESG-compliant venture capital fund, which gave me insight into investing in responsible firms. I also spoke about market research I'd done and my passion for teamwork in a symbiotic environment – skills I knew were crucial for the fast-paced world of banking.
My team and I worked on the 'ESG Flyer' project, tasked with exploring ESG's role in the investment banking industry. This involved identifying existing frameworks and understanding how investment banks could improve their ESG compliance. We even attended networking events with startup founders, which offered great insights into the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
As one of four team members, I primarily focused on the governance and social aspects of ESG, researching various reporting frameworks. Initially, understanding and contextualising ESG within investment banking was a challenge, as was finding all the diverse regulations. However, we persevered! Using MSCI data, and with one teammate's coding expertise, we converted raw data into clear visual charts, a skill vital for presenting financial information. Our supervisor also provided crucial data sources.
Balancing the project with university was demanding, but our fantastic team made it manageable. We delegated work effectively, supporting each other when anyone was swamped which was a true reflection of the collaboration needed in demanding financial roles.
Our final deliverable was a concise presentation, highlighting key information about ESG in investment banking. It provided insights into regulations and frameworks, and outlined ways banks could enhance their practices – showcasing our ability to analyse and propose strategic improvements, a core function of investment banking.
Beyond the project, I significantly enhanced my research and analytical skills, and the ability to distil large amounts of information into concise points, a skill paramount for client presentations in banking. I was surprised by how well-structured the ESG landscape is, and the constant potential for improvement. Contextualising complex ESG concepts within investment banking really solidified my understanding of how this emerging field will shape financial markets.
The most rewarding part was seeing our final presentation and knowing how much I'd learned. Networking with interesting people was also a huge bonus, building connections for my future career.
For anyone considering qNomics, especially if you're aiming for a career in finance like investment banking, I wholeheartedly recommend it. It deepens your understanding of an industry and significantly boosts your CV with practical experience. Keep an eye out for applications, attend the sessions, and make the most of every opportunity.
For me, qNomics will be instrumental in channelling my theoretical learning into a practical environment, better preparing me for a dynamic investment banking role. It's equipped me with invaluable research skills for both academic and professional analysis. Our mentors and supervisors were also fantastic, guiding us and providing crucial feedback that mirrored professional mentorship.
My qNomics journey was great, exceeding my expectations and offering immense personal and professional growth, particularly in skills directly applicable to my ambition of working in investment banking.